2025-10-09
Foreign Minister Penny Wong must personally intervene to ensure that all diplomatic efforts are being made to ensure the safety and prompt release of Tasmanian captain and humanitarian Madeleine Habib, who was yesterday kidnapped by the Israeli military from international waters while attempting to deliver medical aid to Gaza.
The vessel Conscience, captained by Ms Habib, was part of the Freedom Flotilla carrying doctors, nurses and journalists to Gaza when it was illegally intercepted in international waters.
“This was an act of piracy on the high seas,” Australian Greens Senator for Tasmania Nick McKim said.
“Madeleine Habib is a Tasmanian master mariner and humanitarian activist of the highest order.”
“She’s spent decades standing up for justice, protecting our oceans, rescuing migrants at sea and delivering aid where governments have failed.
“She deserves the full support and protection of the Australian Government.”
“This kidnapping in international waters is an illegal act by Israel’s government.
“Freedom of navigation and the law of the sea must apply. Minister Wong must demand Madeleine’s immediate release and the release of any other Australians aboard.”
“Labor cannot keep standing by while Israel commits war crimes, kidnaps aid workers, and bombs civilians.
“The government should impose sanctions on Prime Minister Netanyahu and his war cabinet, and stop exporting weapons components that are being used in this genocide.”
“Madeleine is someone Tasmania should be immensely proud of. She’s a heroic activist who has always stood up for justice, even when governments wouldn’t.”